By: Kari, MA, LPC candidate
We were all shocked and saddened by the tragic
events that unfolded at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut on
Friday, December 14th.
Unfortunately, speculation among the media that the shooter, Adam Lanza,
had an autism spectrum disorder (Asperger’s Disorder) as well as amateur
conjecture about a link between autism and premeditated violence have
intensified the impact of this tragedy for many in the autism community.
Simply put, Asperger’s Disorder (also known as
Asperger’s Syndrome) is an autism spectrum disorder characterized by normal
intelligence and normal or near-normal language development. Children who are diagnosed with this disorder
will likely have difficulty interacting with others and may be described as
“awkward” in social situations. They
might have difficulty with basic communication skills, such as eye contact,
using and/or interpreting body language or facial expressions, and
understanding figures of speech or sarcasm.
They may display repetitive behaviors, such as hand wringing or
flapping; have coordination problems; and require more structure and planning
than other children. Further, they will
likely have a limited range of interests and may be exceptionally talented or
skilled in a particular area.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 1 in every 88 U.S. children has autism. Additionally, autism spectrum disorders are
not characterized by violence or a desire to hurt others, and being diagnosed
on the spectrum does not make a person dangerous. In fact, the Autism Society of America
released the following statement in response to the Newtown tragedy: “There is
absolutely no evidence or any reliable research that suggests a linkage between
autism and planned violence.” It is
critically important for all of us, professionals and laypeople alike, to understand
that so as not to discriminate against the children and families that make up
the autism community.
